Vegan Moussaka Recipe: A Delicious Plant-Based Twist

Moussaka, a Mediterranean staple, is traditionally a layered casserole featuring eggplants, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping. This Vegan Moussaka recipe offers all the comforting flavors of the original but in a completely plant-based form. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, this recipe is hearty, satisfying, and bursting with wholesome ingredients.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 9g

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Active Time: 45 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 6 servings

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Mandoline slicer (optional)
• Oven
• Blender (for the béchamel sauce)

Ingredients

For the Eggplant Layer:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Vegan Meat Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 cup cooked lentils (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegan Béchamel Sauce:

• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Topping:

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly golden. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Vegan Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and aromatic. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegan Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a paste forms.
2. Gradually add the plant-based milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Stir in the nutmeg, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Moussaka

1. Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the vegan meat sauce on the bottom.
3. Arrange a layer of roasted eggplant slices over the sauce.
4. Repeat with another layer of vegan meat sauce, followed by eggplant, until all the ingredients are used, ending with the béchamel sauce on top.
5. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil for a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake and Rest

1. Bake the assembled moussaka in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
2. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Variations

1. Add Potatoes: Include a layer of thinly sliced, pre-cooked potatoes for added texture.
2. Use Zucchini: Substitute some eggplant with zucchini for a mix of flavors.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in the béchamel sauce.
4. Extra Protein: Incorporate crumbled tofu or tempeh into the meat sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this vegan moussaka with a crisp green salad and a slice of crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal. A side of hummus or tzatziki (made with plant-based yogurt) complements the dish beautifully.

Enjoy this Vegan Moussaka recipe, a delightful combination of hearty, creamy, and flavorful layers that bring the best of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike!